How cold without a wetsuit?

Former Member
Former Member
I started swimming about a year ago and have really fallen in love with it. I've only swam in open water and have no desire to go in a pool. I swam right through the winter in the ocaen here in New England in 37 degree F water with a triathlon wetsuit. The water is warming up, now it's about 47F. I was wondering at what temperature should I try swimming without a wetsuit? I was thinking that maybe I could try it when the water hits 50F. Anybody have any suggestions? I sort of have a goal in the back of my head to swim the English Channel someday.
Parents
  • Former Member
    Former Member
    After a summer of lake swimming I can get down to 53 (no wetsuit of course!) for close to an hour but I would not be able to start at that temp in the spring after a winter in the hot pool. If you have been swimming outside all winter then you might be able to start with a pretty low temp. It is all in the acclimatization, as I think someone said above. Good luck!
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  • Former Member
    Former Member
    After a summer of lake swimming I can get down to 53 (no wetsuit of course!) for close to an hour but I would not be able to start at that temp in the spring after a winter in the hot pool. If you have been swimming outside all winter then you might be able to start with a pretty low temp. It is all in the acclimatization, as I think someone said above. Good luck!
Children
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